
Dwarkamai and Chavadi Shirdi
Dwarkamai & Chavadi: Sacred Shirdi sites where Sai Baba lived, performed miracles, and held court. Experience divine peace.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful darshan.

Dwarkamai and Chavadi Shirdi
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful darshan.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Dwarkamai & Chavadi: Sacred Shirdi sites where Sai Baba lived, performed miracles, and held court. Experience divine peace.
"The serenity here fills you with calm and devotion. A must-visit for all Sai Baba devotees."

🎯 Beat the Thursday Rush
Thursdays are very crowded; expect 2+ hour queues. Visit on weekdays for a more manageable experience.
✨ Respectful Dress Code
Cover shoulders and knees. Modest attire is essential for entry into these sacred sites.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Dwarkamai's Sacred Dhuni
Dwarkamai
Witness the eternal flame lit by Sai Baba himself, a symbol of his enduring presence and miracles.

Chavadi Procession
Chavadi
Experience the traditional palki procession, a grand affair honoring Sai Baba's royal status.

Sai Baba's Satka & Padukas
Chavadi
See the actual satka (staff) and padukas (footwear) used by Sai Baba during his time.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Dwarkamai & Chavadi
Respectful Attire & Devotion
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Beat the Thursday Rush
Thursdays are very crowded; expect 2+ hour queues. Visit on weekdays for a more manageable experience.
✨ Respectful Dress Code
Cover shoulders and knees. Modest attire is essential for entry into these sacred sites.
📸 Photography Rules
Photography may be restricted inside. Be mindful and ask before taking pictures.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry water, especially during warmer months. The spiritual journey can be tiring.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Beat the Thursday Rush
Thursdays are very crowded; expect 2+ hour queues. Visit on weekdays for a more manageable experience.
✨ Respectful Dress Code
Cover shoulders and knees. Modest attire is essential for entry into these sacred sites.
📸 Photography Rules
Photography may be restricted inside. Be mindful and ask before taking pictures.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry water, especially during warmer months. The spiritual journey can be tiring.
🙏 Embrace the Peace
Dwarkamai offers serenity. Soak in the divine vibes and feel the calm.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Dwarkamai and Chavadi for their profound spiritual significance and the peaceful, divine atmosphere. The ever-burning dhuni in Dwarkamai and the historical relics in Chavadi are highlights. However, the immense crowds, especially on Thursdays, can be a significant drawback, leading to long wait times.
"Visited Dwarka Mai in Shirdi, the sacred place where Sai Baba spent a major part of his life. This humble yet powerful place holds deep spiritual significance, as it was here Baba performed miracles, healed the sick, and guided his devotees. The ever-burning dhuni (sacred fire) still continues, symbolizing his eternal presence. Being there felt truly divine and filled me with a sense of calm and devotion."
Trishank Gupta
"Dwarkamai in Shirdi is a truly peaceful and spiritual place. The serenity here fills you with calm and devotion. A must-visit for all Sai Baba devotees. Om Sai Ram!"
Dheeraj Nalla
"A nice visit
Saw 100+ years old burning fire that was light up by Shri Sai Baba truly mesmerizing experience"
Suyash Dhulap
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Dwarkamai and Chavadi are located very close to the main Sai Baba Samadhi Mandir in Shirdi. You can easily walk from the Shirdi bus stand to the temple complex, which houses both these significant sites. Auto-rickshaws are also readily available if you prefer not to walk.
Yes, there are parking facilities available near the main Shirdi Sai Baba Temple complex. However, it can get quite busy, especially on peak days. It's advisable to arrive early if you are driving.
Dwarkamai and Chavadi are within walking distance of each other, both being part of the main pilgrimage area. You can easily walk between them as part of your visit to the temple complex.
Most visitors start at the Samadhi Mandir, then proceed to Dwarkamai, and then to Chavadi. The flow is generally intuitive within the temple complex. Follow the signs and the general movement of devotees.
While not strictly necessary as the sites are close and well-known, you can find local guides near the temple complex if you wish for a more detailed historical or spiritual explanation.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Dwarkamai and Chavadi is generally free for all devotees. These are sacred pilgrimage sites open to everyone seeking darshan and spiritual solace.
Dwarkamai and Chavadi are typically open 24 hours a day, aligning with the temple's darshan timings. However, it's always good to check for any specific festival-related schedule changes.
The Chavadi procession itself does not have a separate entry fee. It's a part of the spiritual experience offered to devotees visiting Shirdi.
While the main Samadhi Mandir might have provisions for special darshan, Dwarkamai and Chavadi are usually accessible to all. The focus is on spiritual experience rather than exclusive access.
Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends or Thursdays. Visiting early in the morning or late at night can also help minimize wait times.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The dhuni in Dwarkamai is a sacred fire that has been continuously burning since Sai Baba's time. It symbolizes his eternal presence, divine energy, and the miracles he performed, offering blessings and healing to devotees.
Chavadi is where Sai Baba used to hold his court and sleep on alternate nights. You can see his satka (staff), padukas (footwear), and a photograph. The weekly procession from Dwarkamai to Chavadi is a major highlight.
Photography is often restricted inside the main prayer halls and sanctums of Dwarkamai and Chavadi to maintain the sanctity and peace of the place. It's best to check for signage or ask local volunteers.
The Chavadi procession, often held on Thursdays, is a grand event where Sai Baba's belongings are carried in a palki (palanquin) from Dwarkamai to Chavadi, accompanied by devotional songs and a large gathering of devotees.
You can spend anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the crowd and your interest in soaking in the spiritual atmosphere. If you plan to witness the Chavadi procession, allocate more time.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, numerous food stalls and small eateries are available around the Shirdi Sai Baba Temple complex, offering local snacks and meals. For a more substantial meal, the Sai Baba Prasadalaya offers affordable and hygienic food.
While prasad is distributed at the main temple, you might find small offerings or prasad available from vendors near Dwarkamai and Chavadi. The Sai Baba Prasadalaya is the primary place for a full meal.
You'll find a variety of Indian vegetarian cuisine, including local Maharashtrian dishes, North Indian curries, and South Indian snacks. Many restaurants cater to pilgrims.
Yes, the Sai Baba Prasadalaya serves meals to thousands of devotees daily at a nominal cost. It's a highly recommended experience for a wholesome and affordable meal.
Generally, food items are allowed, but it's advisable to consume them outside the immediate prayer areas to maintain cleanliness and sanctity. Avoid bringing food into the sanctum.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is usually restricted inside Dwarkamai to preserve the sanctity of the place. It's best to confirm with local authorities or volunteers on-site.
During the Chavadi procession, photography might be allowed from a distance, but it's advisable to be discreet and respectful. Avoid obstructing the procession or other devotees.
The exterior of Dwarkamai and Chavadi, especially during the early morning or late evening light, can offer beautiful photographic opportunities. The entrance areas and surrounding pathways are also good for capturing the ambiance.
Mobile phones are generally allowed, but using them for photography or videography inside the main prayer areas is often prohibited. Lockers are usually available to store your devices.
Visitors often capture the spiritual atmosphere, the architecture of the buildings, and moments of devotion. Photos of the dhuni in Dwarkamai and the procession in Chavadi are popular.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Explain to children the significance of Sai Baba and these places in simple terms. Focus on the stories of miracles and kindness to make it engaging. While photography might be restricted inside, the walk between the sites and the general ambiance can be visually interesting for younger visitors. Ensure children are dressed modestly and understand the importance of quiet reverence.
🙏 Solo Devotees
Embrace the communal aspect of the pilgrimage; you'll likely find fellow devotees willing to share experiences or offer assistance. The proximity of these sites to the main temple complex means you can easily spend a full day immersed in spiritual activities. Consider attending the aarti ceremonies for a more immersive experience.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Be mindful of the Chavadi procession; while capturing it, prioritize respect for the event and other devotees. Look for candid moments of prayer and devotion. The vibrant colors of traditional attire and the spiritual symbols present a rich tapestry for any photographer.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Spiritual Heart: Dwarkamai
Inside Dwarkamai, you can see Baba's satka (staff) and padukas (footwear), tangible relics of his earthly existence. The space itself, though modest, resonates with immense spiritual power. Many visitors describe feeling an overwhelming sense of peace and devotion upon entering. It's a place where the veil between the material and spiritual worlds feels thin, offering a truly divine experience for pilgrims.
The Royal Court: Chavadi
The procession is a spectacular display of devotion, with devotees singing bhajans and chanting prayers. It’s a powerful reminder of how Sai Baba was revered as a king by his followers. Visiting Chavadi offers a glimpse into the daily life and the ceremonial aspects of Sai Baba's time in Shirdi. The Khandoba Temple, where Malsapat invited Sai Baba to Shirdi, is also nearby and holds historical significance in Baba's journey.
Navigating the Crowds and Devotion
To make the most of your visit, planning is key. Arriving early in the morning or late in the evening can significantly reduce wait times. Weekdays are generally a better option for a more peaceful experience. Remember to dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, as these are sacred religious sites. While photography might be restricted inside, capturing the external architecture and the general ambiance is usually permitted.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit